Cuba celebrated ten years of LGBTI activism, social inclusion and acceptance in the country Saturday. In the streets of Havana, thousands joined the festive celebration of diversity, chanting such slogans as “Cuba is one, myself included!,” “Socialism yes – homophobia no!”, and “Revolution of all colors.

Longtime LGBTI rights activist and director of the Cuban National Center for Sex Education, or Cenesex, Dr. Mariela Castro Espin, was present at the march.

“10 years have passed since we first celebrated the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia in Cuba. Many things have happened in this decade of intense work, where hundreds and, gradually, thousands of people have contributed their share to the development of the Cuban Conference Against Homophobia and Transphobia," said the pioneering rights activist and sitting member of the National Assembly of People's Power.

Castro is the daughter of Cuban President Raul Castro and the late feminist Cuban revolutionary Vilma Espin.

"On the road – which we made by walking it – our population, through participation, clearly expressed an understanding about what really is harmful to our society, what really harms human relationships, health and the well-being of people, (namely,) homophobia and transphobia," said the sexologist.

teleSUR takes a look at the Cuban people's ongoing fight for LGBTI social rights.

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Mariela Castro Espín, director of Cenesex, participates in the the Cuban march against homophobia and transphobia.
Photo:EFE

The Cuban people celebrate their advances toward increased tolerance, respect and inclusion.
Photo:EFE

The mood was festive as the people celebrated their ongoing fight against backward social attitudes.
Photo:EFE

Cubans take part in a celebration of sexual diversity and equality.
Photo:EFE

The mood was festive as the people celebrated their ongoing fight against backward social attitudes.
Photo:EFE

LGBTI people have won significant gains in the past decade of activism.
Photo:EFE

The Cuban people reject anti-gay, anti-trans and racist backwardness.
Photo:EFE

The Cuban people celebrate their advances toward increased tolerance, respect and inclusion.
Photo:EFE

The Cuban people celebrate their social rights with a kiss.
Photo:EFE

Mariela Castro Espín, director of Cenesex, participates in the the Cuban march against homophobia and transphobia.
Photo:EFE